Hero XPulse 400 Spotted Testing – Taking on KTM 390 Adventure?
Hero MotoCorp is known for its affordable and reliable bikes that cater to the mass market. However, the brand is also keen to expand its portfolio and offer more premium and performance-oriented products. One such product is the XPulse 400, a new adventure bike that could challenge the KTM 390 Adventure, one of the most popular bikes in its segment.
Highlights of Hero XPulse 400 based on spy shots:
- Will use a 350-400cc single cylinder, liquid cooled engine
- Estimated power output of 35-40 hp
- Upside down front forks expected for premium appeal
- 21-inch front wheel with tube-type tyres
- Tail section and exhaust indicate bigger proportions
The XPulse 400 was spotted testing in Jaipur by a BikeWale reader, who sent a video of the bike. The bike was camouflaged, but some details were visible. The bike had a trellis frame, which is different from the tubular frame of the existing XPulse 200. The bike also had a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, which looked bigger than the air-cooled engine of the XPulse 200. The displacement of the engine is rumored to be between 350cc and 400cc, and the power output is expected to be around 35-40bhp. The engine will also have a good low and mid-range torque, which is essential for an adventure bike.
The XPulse 400 will also have some premium features, such as upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear with preload adjustment. The bike will have a 21-inch wheel at the front and an 18-inch wheel at the rear, both fitted with tube-type tyres. The bike will also have disc brakes at both ends and ABS as standard. The bike will have a digital instrument cluster, LED lights, and a windscreen.
The XPulse 400 is expected to be launched in 2024, after the XPulse 210, which will be another adventure bike from Hero. The XPulse 210 will use the same engine as the new Karizma XMR, which is a 210cc single-cylinder engine that produces around 20bhp. The XPulse 210 will be a more affordable option for those who want an adventure bike from Hero.
The XPulse 400 will be a more premium and powerful option for those who want to explore new terrains and challenge themselves. The bike will compete with the KTM 390 Adventure, which is one of the best bikes in its class. The KTM bike has a 373cc single-cylinder engine that produces around 43bhp and has features like traction control, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire throttle, and adjustable suspension. The KTM bike also has tubeless tyres and a TFT display.
The XPulse 400 will have to offer something unique and attractive to lure customers away from the KTM bike. The price of the XPulse 400 will also be an important factor, as it will have to undercut the KTM bike significantly to make it more appealing. The KTM bike costs around Rs.3 lakh (ex-showroom), while the XPulse 400 could cost around Rs.2 lakh (ex-showroom).
The XPulse 400 will be an exciting addition to Hero’s lineup and will showcase its capabilities in making high-performance bikes. The bike will also attract more customers who are looking for an adventure bike that can handle both on-road and off-road conditions. The bike will also give Hero an edge over its rivals like Bajaj, TVS, and Royal Enfield in the adventure segment.
